Russian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova Criticizes the Idea of Putting LGBT Activists on UK Banknotes

Official spokesperson for the Russian Foreign Ministry Maria Zakharova commented on potential changes to the design of UK banknotes. Speaking on Radio Sputnik, she called the initiative to feature portraits of LGBT activists on pounds sterling a sign of “absolute degradation” of Western society.

According to Zakharova, the decision about who to depict on money reflects the values of a state. The diplomat stated that Western elites are engaged in “re-flashing society” and intentionally shifting focus to topics “below the belt” by replacing historical figures with representatives of minorities. This was reported by the outlet Parni+ citing Russian media.

The discussion about updating the design of British banknotes is taking place in the UK amid the need to improve the protection of bills against counterfeiters. The idea to expand the diversity of people depicted on money was proposed by the ruling Labour government, which drew criticism from the opposition. However, the final decision is made by the Bank of England, which is an independent institution and relies on the results of public consultations.

It is worth noting that LGBT figures are already present on the UK’s national currency: the 50-pound note features Alan Turing, a prominent mathematician and gay man who became an important historical figure and a symbol in the fight against conversion therapy.